27 Things to Know Before Buying a Metal Building

If you’re thinking about buying a metal building, here is what you should know first.

TIANYING supply professional and honest service.

Cost

Are metal buildings cheaper than wood?

Yes, metal building prices are lower than wood. The exact price difference depends on the current cost of steel versus lumber. You can generally expect the shell of a wood building to cost about twice as much as a metal building.

Are metal buildings cheap?

Metal buildings are cheaper than buildings made out of wood or other materials. But that doesn’t mean they are of poor quality.

Are repossessed buildings cheaper than new buildings?

We did our own study to find out if repo storage buildings were cheaper than new storage buildings. We found that the average discount on a used building was only 12%, and that the used buildings we found were on average 42% more expensive than the new buildings we sell.

Are metal buildings worth it?

Metal buildings are usually a good investment because of their low cost to build, their long lifespan, and their low cost of maintenance. Adding a metal garage or shop to your home will usually increase the value of your property more than the amount you pay for the building.

How much do metal buildings cost?

Prefab metal buildings cost anywhere between $8 and $30 per square foot. This includes the price of delivery and installation, but not the cost of permits, site preparation, and a concrete foundation. The total cost will usually fall between $14 to $45 per square foot.

How much does a concrete foundation cost?

A concrete foundation will usually cost at least $8 per square foot. In some areas the price will be lower, but usually it will be higher. The biggest factor is the local cost of labor. If you pour your own foundation, you only need to pay for the cost of the concrete and any tools and supplies that you need.

Can you finance metal buildings?

Some manufacturers offer financing for metal buildings. Some lenders like New Century Bank and Acorn Finance specialize in financing metal buildings. A metal garage can be financed with a second mortgage, a cash-out refinance, or a home equity line of credit.

Who finances metal buildings?

1. New Century Bank
2. Acorn Finance
3. Banks and credit unions (via a mortgage, second mortgage, cash-our-refinance, home equity line of credit, or personal loan)
4. Peer-to-peer lenders

Construction and Installation

What metal is used in buildings?

Steel and aluminum are both used for prefabricated metal buildings. Aluminum is softer and is more likely to scratch and dent. Steel is stronger and more durable, so it is more commonly used to construct metal buildings.

What is the best metal for buildings?

Steel is stronger and more durable than aluminum, so it is a better material than aluminum for metal buildings. Large metal buildings are often made out of red iron I-beams. Red iron is actually steel that is coated with iron oxide. Smaller buildings are typically made with galvanized steel framing and panels.

What are pre-engineered metal buildings?

Pre-engineered metal buildings are buildings that are designed and manufactured in a factory, and then transported and installed at the building site. Pre-engineered metal buildings are more cost effective than buildings constructed on-site because there is almost no material or labor wasted in the construction process.

How are metal buildings installed?

1. A permit is obtained
2. The building site is prepared
3. A foundation is poured
4. The building is manufactured at a factory
5. The building components are delivered
6. The installation crew assembles the metal building at the site

Who sells and installs metal buildings and garages near me?

Alan’s Factory Outlet sells metal buildings and metal garages in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.

Quality

How long do metal buildings last?

Most steel building will last at least 50 years, with minimal maintenance. With regular annual inspection and care, metal buildings can last more than 100 years. Metal builds can withstand many extreme weather conditions without incurring any damage.

What are the best quality metal buildings?

Those who want the highest quality metal building should select the following features:

• Vertical style roof
• 12-gauge steel tubing for the frame
• 26-gauge sheet metal
• 170 MPH wind upgrade
• Woven R-17 insulation
• Weather stripping around windows

Safety

Are metal buildings hurricane proof?

Metal buildings can be designed and built to withstand hurricane-force winds. The strongest hurricanes are class 5 hurricanes, with sustained winds that are at least 157 mph. You can get a metal building with a certification for winds up to 170 mph, which can survive most hurricanes.

Are metal buildings safe in a tornado?

About 1% of tornadoes are violent EF4 or EF5 tornadoes, with wind speeds above 207 mph, sometimes reaching speeds above 300 mph. Very few buildings will survive a direct hit from these violent storms. Metal buildings can be certified for 170 mph winds. These buildings are safe in most tornadoes.

Are metal buildings grounded?

Metal buildings can be grounded with metal rods driven into the ground that are bonded to the metal frame of the building. If lightning strikes the building, the electricity simply passes through the metal framing and into the ground.

Are metal buildings safe from lightning?

A properly grounded metal building is safe during a lighting storm, provided no one is touching the metal frame, metal siding, or any conductive material that is attached to the metal shell of the building. Like any building, nearby lightning strikes may disrupt electrical systems that are not equipped with surge protectors.

Use as a Home

Note: Buildings sold by Alan’s Factory Outlet are not designed or intended to be used as homes.

Are metal buildings safe to live in?

Metal buildings can be safe to live in. However, they should be designed and built as a home and properly insulated. Metal buildings that are designed as garages are not air-tight, and are not designed for use as a home.

Is it legal to live in a metal building?

Laws vary widely between locations. The fastest way to find the laws in your area is to call the zoning planning department for the city or county that you live in.

Can a metal building be used as a house?

Yes. A metal building may be used as a house if it is constructed to local codes for residential structures. Barndominiums are metal homes that have been gaining in popularity in recent years.

Customization & Insulation

Can metal buildings be moved?

Metal buildings can be disassembled and moved more easily than most other types of buildings. However, moving a metal building is still a complex operation. Obviously, the foundation of the building cannot be moved. A new foundation will need to be poured before moving the metal building.

Can metal buildings be painted?

The metal buildings we sell have the colors baked on. These colors last a long time and do not easily fade. If you want to paint your metal building a different color, you can use a metal specific paint, or paint the building with a metal primer before using an exterior paint.

Can metal buildings be insulated?

Yes. There are several ways to insulate a metal building:

• Double bubble insulation
• Woven insulation
• Spray foam insulation
• Fiberglass insulation
• Foam boards
• Insulated Panels

At Alan’s Factory Outlet we offer double bubble and woven R-17 insulation.

Do I need to insulate my metal building?

Insulation is optional, but offers several benefits:

• Moisture control. Insulation prevents water from condensing on the inside walls and roof.
• Temperature control. Insulation with a high enough R-value can help keep your metal building warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. If anyone will be spending long hours in your metal building, insulation is ideal.

How are metal buildings insulated?

Metal buildings are insulated by attaching insulation to the inner walls and ceiling of the building.

Have more questions?

Check out our Metal Garage Buyer’s Guide if you’re shopping for a metal garage.

Getting Started With Prefabs

Are you a relative newbie, or just need a refresher on the question of "modular" versus "prefabricated"? You're in luck: we've got you covered with the basics.

Prefab, Modular, and Kit Homes—What's the Difference?

Builders, developers, designers, and architects have developed a range of homes that are composed of prefabricated, modular, or kit-of-parts pieces that can allow for lower costs, faster and easier on-site construction, and even higher quality spaces. Here, we delve into the differences—and similarities—among these manufactured residences.

11 Modular Home Floor Plans That Suit a Range of Needs

We’ve gathered the floor plans of some of our favorite prefabricated and modular homes to better appreciate not only how they look from the outside, but also how they function spatially.

State-by-State Prefab Resource Guides

These reliable companies across the United States are here to help you make your prefab dream home a reality.

Arizona might be known for its beautiful national parks and lunar-like desert landscapes, but it also features a number of successful prefab and modular home companies.

California Prefabs

In a state where the weather ranges from the dry, arid heat of the Mojave Desert to the snowy mountaintops of Lake Tahoe, it can be difficult to imagine prefab homes that suit the broad range of climates—and clients!—that can be found in California. But fear not: we’ve gathered some of the most trustworthy, dependable companies that design and fabricate prefab homes throughout the state.

Maine Prefabs

With its nautical history, breathtaking natural landscape, classic New England architecture—and, lest we forget, delicious lobster—Maine has a lot to offer its residents. With an eye on sustainable practices and energy-efficient buildings, prefabricated and modular homes have become more and more popular, often inspired by the local vernacular farmhouses and cabins.

Massachusetts Prefabs

Prefabricated homes in New England have never looked so appealing, thanks to these Massachusetts companies.

Minnesota Prefabs

If you're seeking to build a prefab or modular home in the great state of Minnesota, these four firms are eagerly waiting to assist.

New Hampshire Prefabs

If you're seeking to move into a modern prefab and are located near New Hampshire, look no further—we've rounded up five of the top prefab home builders in the area.  

New York Prefabs

New York State hosts a slew of companies that are building modern prefab or modular homes that continue to push the envelope of building technology.

Ohio Prefabs

If you live in Ohio and are thinking of trading in your traditional build for a new prefab home, you won’t need to look far for assistance.    

Oregon Prefabs

If you're thinking about a move to Oregon or simply daydreaming about setting up a winter cabin near Mount Hood, consider looking into these prefab home builders and designers that are based in, or provide service to, the state of Oregon.

Pennsylvania Prefabs

From small towns to big cities, prefab home construction is becoming more and more popular in the Keystone State. Take a look at five modular home companies that are building contemporary, prefabricated homes.  

Washington Prefabs

The state of Washington has quickly risen to the top of the prefab residential market thanks to its collection of well-established builders and architects. Often with an eye toward eco-conscious features and a preference for local materials like Western cedar, these professionals are seeking to address the local housing market with long-term fixes.

Regional and Topographical Prefab Guides

Get inspired by these prefabricated marvels from all across the globe.

Does the idea of owning a modern kit home pique your interest? Good news: we’ve assembled a list of kit home companies in all seven continents for you.

The Best Prefab Homes in Australia

These homes from the land down under respond to challenging locations and climate change with modular solutions.

7 Coolest California Prefabs

We’re always keeping an eye out for good-looking prefabricated homes; here are seven in the state of California that we love.

7 Glorious Golden State Prefabs

Many architects in California regularly take on the challenge of experimenting with alternative construction methods. These seven modular homes throughout the state—that make the most of the varied landscape—push the envelope with innovative prefab designs.

10 Coastal Prefabs That Bring Modular Housing to the Beach

When an efficient prefab can become a coastal retreat with a spectacular view to boot—it makes a very compelling case for not being landlocked. Here, we've gathered a variety of prefabs set in diverse locations around the world, providing you a little inspiration if you're currently plotting a feasible way to build a beach house of your very own.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Custom Prefab Buildings.

6 Modern Modular Homes We Love in Colorado

Boasting a thrilling topography that ranges from deep canyons to alpine mountains, and arid plains to rolling dunes, the state of Colorado offers an equally broad variety of modern, weather-appropriate prefab homes. Here, we review some of our favorite modular homes in this outdoorsy destination.

9 Modern Prefabs in the Desert

Although the locations of these prefab homes range in remoteness, each of them are carefully nestled into their harsh desert surroundings—thanks to practical features that help them deal with the extremes that come with the territory.

10 Prefabs Found on the East Coast

Paneled, modular, and kit residences are more affordable and eco-friendly than structures built with traditional techniques—and they’re popping up from coast to coast.

6 Weather-Ready Prefab Homes in Florida

Here, we take a look at both models and completed residences in Florida that take advantage of the benefits of prefabrication and modular construction, while meeting the necessary standards to withstand the state’s environmental conditions.

4 Innovative Prefab Homes in Georgia

The state of Georgia might have you thinking more about traditional Southern architecture than modern prefab homes, but these modular, kit, and prefabricated homes will have you think again.

7 Hawaiian Prefabs and Kit Homes

If you enjoy breathtaking landscapes and sunny beaches, then Hawaii is the perfect destination for you. Carve out your own slice of paradise with these seven prefabs and kit homes.

8 Inspirational Island Prefabs

The idea of island living is as aspirational as it gets. These prefabricated homes on islands around the world will give you the inspiration you need.

5 Marvelous Prefab Homes in Michigan

These homes in the Great Lakes State will have you reconsidering the possibilities of prefab design.

19 Modern Prefab Companies Perfect For Mountain Living

Take a look at 20 trustworthy prefab companies that do an outstanding job at creating the perfect modern mountain home.

7 Prefabs Set in Nature

One of the benefits of prefabricated and modular buildings is that they leave minimal construction waste and can be built without damaging much of the land they’re sited on. Take a look at these seven prefabs that are located on stunning natural sites—ranging from the California desert to the Norwegian mountains.

10 Outstanding Prefabs in the Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is known for driving forward the causes of environmentalism, energy efficiency, and eco-consciousness. These 10 buildings showcase the diversity and range that can be achieved in prefabricated dwellings, both in accommodating customizations and reducing footprints on the pieces of land they occupy.

These 8 Prefabs in Seattle Make Us Want to Move to the Emerald City

Although Seattle has long been acclaimed for being surrounded by water, mountains, and evergreen forests, more recently, it’s become a hotbed for modern design and high-quality architecture. With real estate prices at an all-time high and inventory at an all-time low, it’s understandable why prefabricated and modular homes are increasing in popularity.

10 Kit Home Companies in the South

Known for its world-famous charm, wide-open spaces, and sunny skies, the South can be a welcoming place to call home. Whether you’re dreaming of living there in a modern farmhouse or a classic log cabin, these kit home companies can help you realize your prefab home building ambitions.

These 8 Homes in Texas Will Convert You Into a Prefab Fanatic

Acclaimed for being cost-efficient, sustainable, and stylish, it’s no wonder why prefabricated homes are being embraced with open arms. Although these carefully crafted properties are popping up all across the globe, we can't get enough of the prefab action currently taking place in Texas.

7 Modern Modular and Prefabricated Homes in the UK

Prefabricated houses were in fact a major part of the British government’s plan to address the UK's public housing shortage after World War II. Between and , an estimated 1.2 million new prefab houses were constructed. Today, new modern prefab and modular homes not only meet housing demands, but also make strong architectural statements with their streamlined designs and eco-friendly construction methods.

These 7 Wisconsin Prefabs Take Modular Design to the Next Level

These seven striking homes are proof of how well prefabs work within the bucolic settings of America's Dairyland.

Prefab Resources by Building Types and Materials

Prefab comes in all shapes and sizes—see the unique constructions that made the cut.

Better your home's indoor/outdoor connection with one of these DIY deck kits.

7 Resources For Prefab Sunrooms and Easy-to-Install Sun Parlors

A dedicated room for sun rays doesn't have to be solely used for relaxing, but it can also be a versatile, multi-use area that can act as an office, playroom, painting studio, or entertaining space—just to name a few.

10 Prefab Garage Solutions For Auto Enthusiasts

Whether it's converting your existing garage space into a vibrant and productive workshop, erecting a ready-made prefab structure, or building one yourself from scratch based off of plans you found online, here are some engaging garage solutions that caught our eye.  

10 Prefab Barn Companies That Bring DIY to Home Building Typology

Here are some companies we've discovered that provide ready-made prefab log home solutions that are durable and honor the tradition.

10 Sunny Poolside Prefabs

We’ve gathered some sun-filled examples of prefab designs that coexist with modern pools—providing some inspiration if you're considering bringing these two ideas together on your own property.    

10 Steel Prefabs That Are Both Modern and Practical

The advantages that come with building a steel prefab go far beyond just the aesthetic choices. Thanks to its durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness, many prefab architects choose to work with steel.

5 Strong Prefab Concrete Home Companies

While concrete prefab providers are scant, we looked up a few that come highly recommended.

Shipping Container Prefabs

These industrial converted homes are changing the meaning of modern prefab housing.

Browse through these amazing European prefab shipping container companies that you can count on when building your home.

16 Prefab Shipping Container Home Companies in the United States

Take a look at 16 companies in the United States that are great to use when building a prefab shipping container home.

10 Beautiful Island-Style Shipping Container Homes

Compact, sturdy, economical, and eco-friendly—what better way could there be to build a dream island getaway? Here we showcase a few of our favorite island-based shipping container homes.

12 Shipping Container Homes That Challenge the Meaning of Shelter

Using the trusted shells of classic shipping containers, these unusual designs feature additions and modifications that push the boundaries of home building. 

How to Buy a Shipping Container

To help you get started buying a shipping container, we asked architects, DIY home builders, and shipping container experts from around the world for their inside tips on bringing home the best possible container for your building needs. 

Prefab Company Spotlights

Make sure you're employing the best of the best with our coverage of the best prefab companies across the globe.

We believe that working with a company that you trust is imperative when building your dream home. Take a look at 22 top-tier, reliable prefab companies from around the world that perfectly execute the modern house look.

These 8 Log Cabin Kit Homes Celebrate Nordic Minimalism

Inspired by Nordic nature, Honka offers prefabs and custom-built log home kits at an affordable price. Founded in by the Finnish Saarelainen brothers in Eastern Finland, Honka—known as Honkarakenne in Finland—was the first industrial manufacturer of log houses.

7 Efficient Prefabs That Prove the Power of Modular Design

Resolution:4 Architecture creates astounding prefabricated homes that are tailored to their sites and the unique needs of their owners. Founded in by Joseph Tanney and Robert Luntz, Manhattan–based firm Resolution: 4 Architecture (RES4) works on a broad range of architectural projects.

10 Kit Home Companies to Watch

Many companies will deliver all the materials necessary for construction to your site—either off-plan, or working specifically to your custom wishes. Here are a few companies that can help you realize your dream of building your own home.

Make Your Dome Dreams Come True With These 12 Kit Home Companies

The geodesic dome is able to cover more space without internal supports than any other enclosure. This design is a breakthrough in shelter, not only in cost-effectiveness, but in ease of construction and energy efficiency. Here are some dome home kit companies we can recommend if you're considering building your own.

8 Companies That Are Revolutionizing Kit Homes

The DIY kit home is a standardized but customizable item that combines prefabricated parts, affordability, and ease of production with the opportunity for consumer individuality. Although the log cabin model remains a popular standard, contemporary kit homes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are more affordable, customizable, and efficient.

7 Companies That Can Help You Make Your Eco-Pod

If you like the cozy, low maintenance joy of small space living, then you’ll probably find eco-pods very appealing. Eco-pods are self-contained architectural units that are sustainably manufactured, transportable, built with the environment in mind—and often, they function off the grid.

A Network of Prefab Tiny Homes Allows Users to "Pay as You Live"

In an attempt to tackle rising housing prices among heavily congested cities, the team behind Berlin–based Cabin Spacey has created a project known as the Minimal House, which is a network of easily accessible tiny homes across the world.

These Log Cabin Kit Homes From Finland Are Surprisingly Sleek

Settled logs that shrink can pose a problem for builders of log homes, as this calls for constant adjustments and maintenance. To counter the effect, architects and builders have come up with non-settling systems that prevent logs from sinking and shrinking. One such innovator is Pluspuu, Helsinki-based designers of high-quality, durable log homes constructed with non-settling logs.   

Prefabs to Rent, Buy, or Build

If you're ready to take the plunge into prefab, these affordable, speedy, and trustworthy companies take the guesswork out of selecting your new home. Not so sure? We've got the 411 on stunning prefabs that are available to rent for your next vacation.

One of the most intriguing ways of building a new dwelling, prefabricated homes are continually growing in popularity due to their high-quality construction offsite and relatively quick turnaround times. Many prefab homes can be designed and built in about four to six months, with the last leg of the work—the arrival and on-site installation—in as little as a few days.

10 Modern Prefab Homes That Cost Less Than $100,000

On budget and on trend, these small, affordable homes can be purchased from various homebuilders in the United States and Canada for under $100,000.

Modern Modular Homes For Sale From $10K to $200K

Whether your budget is $10,000 or $200,000, this roundup of modular home prices in your area puts prefab within reach.

13 Modern Prefab Cabins You Can Buy Right Now

Construction in a controlled factory setting means these cozy prefab cabins are not only space-efficient, but also carefully built. Here, we take a look at 13 prefabricated cabins that are modern, sleek, and eco-friendly.

6 Modern Prefabricated Homes That Are Actually Affordable

Not all prefab homes have a large price tag, and we’ve rounded up six of our favorites that can be purchased for under $250,000 here.

7 Affordable Prefab Homes and Other Alternative, Inexpensive Home Options

Take a look at these incredible projects that offer clever solutions for affordable living. 

7 Incredible Prefab Homes You Can Rent For Your Next Holiday

If you’re considering building a prefab home but aren't sure if it's right for you, perhaps spending your next vacation in one will help you make up your mind.

Related Reading:

The Definitive Guide to Prefab Home Companies in Your State

For more information, please visit Steel Construction Engineering.